Lessons from a Swiss battle

Our newest edition arrived this week! 👶

I am writing to you as a proud father of THREE as we have finally welcomed our second baby girl into the world.

Mom and baby are doing incredible!

Let’s Get Down to Business

About 10 years ago I was invited to compete in a DJ battle in Arosa, Switzerland (the Swiss Alps).

This is one of those places you see on a reel that looks like the mountains grew up around it.

I had a great set that night and absolutely ROCKED the crowd but I still lost the DJ battle.

I’m so happy I did.

The fact is it taught me a lot about business, character and relationships:

3 important lessons I learned that night:

Beyond the Win: Winning isn’t everything. Sometimes, the real victory lies beyond the trophy or the title. It’s in the journey, the experience, and the lessons learned along the way.

Respect and Graciousness: Respect for local customs and the talent of others is crucial, even in competition. Being a gracious guest can go a long way in building character and reputation.

The Value of a Loss: Sometimes, a loss can be just as valuable as a win. The impact we have on others and the attitudes we bring to a situation can leave a lasting impression.

Here’s the quick story: 👇

I (American) had made it through 3 rounds against other international DJs.

I now stood in the final against the local Swiss hero in a 5-minute DJ set.

Before I ever arrived I was told they would hate me (in jest) but I wanted to prove them wrong.

I started my set and the crowd booed me HARD for the first 2 solid minutes!!

Damn, these guys weren’t kidding.

Then, in the most Rocky/Drago moment I’ve ever experienced, the tables turned (get it?)

The boos turned to cheers and I couldn’t believe it.

The crowd was really vibing to my style, song selections, skill display and I was feeling it!

However in the same moment they started cheering me… I realized I didn’t want to win anymore.

I quickly, and I mean quickly thought about the potential outcomes:

I realized my winning would’ve done far more to HURT the other DJ’s brand than to it would HELP mine.

I didn’t quite let up per se, but I quickly snapped into a new self-awareness and acceptance and silently prayed for him to win.

Why?

The Aftermath: A Win-Win Situation

This sounds like a terrible outcome to me.

But if he wins:

In the end, he was ultimately voted the winner. (some people actually booed the result tbh)

But truly I was HAPPY. 😃 😃 

You see he and I both ended up winning a lot more than a trophy that day.

He won tons of local respect and admiration for his victory.

I won:

Personal growth

Healthy relationships

Memories and experiences

Respect for my talent and skills

Deepened cultural understanding

Since then:

That was the first of 4 or 5 different times I was paid to travel and perform in the Alps.

I truly believe that would not have happened if I would have “won” the battle.

The Power of Perspective

This experience taught me a lesson in the power of perspective.

It’s not always about winning or losing; it’s about the value we derive from the experience.

It’s about understanding that sometimes, the best outcome isn’t the most obvious one.

So, the next time you find yourself in a competitive situation, remember this story.

Remember that there’s more to winning than a trophy or a title.

And remember that sometimes, a loss can be a win in disguise.

Brian ‘choose your battles’ Orr

P.P.S. Here’s a sneak peek at my eBook: The IMPACT System®